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Graphic Designers

SOC 27-1024.00Job Zone 4 · Considerable Preparation

Design or create graphics to meet specific commercial or promotional needs, such as packaging, displays, or logos. May use a variety of mediums to achieve artistic or decorative effects.

Context coveredIn-house brand teams, agencies, publishing, and freelance practice across print, digital, brand identity, and packaging; junior designer through art director through design lead.

Sources:O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.SkillsCrosswalkSkillsCrosswalk — O*NET enrichment + adjacency index. Opens in new tab.
Emerging
Entry / Apprentice
  1. Adobe Creative Suite (Illustrator, Photoshop, InDesign) — produce assets to brief under a senior designer's review.
  2. Brand-style guides — apply consistently across asset production for routine projects.
  3. File-prep for print and digital deliverables — execute correctly per output specifications.
  4. Iteration and revision rounds — incorporate feedback efficiently within a project timeline.
  5. Stock-image sourcing and rights tracking — perform per brand and legal standards.
  6. Typography fundamentals (kerning, leading, hierarchy) — apply correctly on routine layout work.
  7. Project files and version control — maintain to team conventions for handoff and archival.
  8. Production-art prep (color, bleed, trim, packaging dielines) — produce reliably for routine print work.
  9. Time tracking and project hours — log accurately to brief, design, revisions, and production phases.
  10. Design-review presentations — present own work clearly in junior critique sessions.
Developing
Mid-level / Established
  1. Concept development from creative brief — produce 3–5 directions for review on routine projects.
  2. Brand-system applications across multiple touchpoints — execute consistently in a defined system.
  3. Multi-channel asset packages (web, social, email, print) — deliver as a cohesive system.
  4. Client and stakeholder revisions — manage diplomatically and translate vague feedback into specific changes.
  5. Photo art-direction and retouching — direct or execute to a senior's vision on shoot days.
  6. Layout systems and grids — design and apply across publication-scale projects.
  7. Junior designers and interns — mentor on technical and conceptual fundamentals.
  8. Project timelines and dependencies — plan and meet on a personally owned project.
  9. Cross-functional review with copy, account, and production — collaborate substantively in meetings.
  10. New software and platform features — learn and incorporate from Creative Cloud releases.
Proficient
Senior / Expert IC
  1. Brand-identity systems from scratch — design and document for clients or in-house brands.
  2. Multi-month project ownership — manage end-to-end from brief through final-art delivery.
  3. Creative leadership in client meetings — present and defend concepts with stakeholders.
  4. Junior and mid-level designers — mentor across the team on craft and process.
  5. Award-quality work — produce on selected projects across the year.
  6. Cross-discipline collaboration (UX, copywriting, motion, illustration) — partner substantively.
  7. Production oversight across complex deliverables — own quality on large packaging or campaign rollouts.
  8. Vendor relationships (printers, photographers, illustrators) — manage on behalf of the team.
  9. Design-system documentation — author for organization-wide use.
  10. Internal critique culture — set the bar through senior-level participation and feedback.
Advanced
Lead / Principal / Executive
  1. Creative direction across a brand or agency portfolio — set and uphold across multi-quarter cycles.
  2. Hiring, leveling, and team development — own the design-talent pipeline at organization scale.
  3. Major brand launches and re-brands — lead end-to-end with executive stakeholders.
  4. Industry presence and thought leadership — speak, write, and represent the practice externally.
  5. Strategic creative planning multi-quarter — align with marketing, product, and business strategy.
  6. Design-budget and capacity planning — own with the head of marketing or agency lead.
  7. Design-system governance at scale — set standards across multi-team or multi-brand organizations.
  8. Senior designer mentorship and career development — sponsor across the design organization.
  9. Cross-functional executive partnerships (product, engineering, marketing) — represent the design point of view.
  10. Creative practice and culture — shape through rituals, standards, and aesthetic direction across the team.

AI-at-Work Competency Framework

Sources:Anthropic Economic IndexAnthropic Economic Index — release_2026_03_24. Opens in new tab.Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab.WEF Skills TaxonomyWEF Skills Taxonomy 2021 — Building a Common Language for Skills at Work. Opens in new tab.
Subscriber feature

Authoritative source data identified for 998 occupations

How a worker at each mastery level uses, directs, and evaluates AI tools in this occupation. Each statement cites its evidence inline; click a citation chip to verify the source.

Emerging
  1. AI-generated layout drafts — accepts basic AI-generated composition suggestions as starting references, then manually adjusts spacing, color, and type to meet client requirements Anthropic Economic IndexAnthropic Economic Index — release_2026_03_24. Opens in new tab..
  2. Image generation prompting — enters descriptive text prompts into generative AI tools to produce initial visual concepts, selecting the closest match for further manual refinement Anthropic Economic IndexAnthropic Economic Index — release_2026_03_24. Opens in new tab. WEF Skills TaxonomyWEF Skills Taxonomy 2021 — Building a Common Language for Skills at Work. Opens in new tab..
Developing
  1. Logo and illustration iteration — directs an AI image tool through multiple style and color variations for logos or product illustrations, evaluating each output against brand guidelines before selecting candidates Anthropic Economic IndexAnthropic Economic Index — release_2026_03_24. Opens in new tab. Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab..
  2. Copy layout assistance — uses AI to auto-fit and reflow copy blocks within established grid structures, then reviews final layouts and applies manual corrections where typographic judgment is required Anthropic Economic IndexAnthropic Economic Index — release_2026_03_24. Opens in new tab..
  3. Asset sourcing acceleration — delegates keyword-based searches for reference imagery and stock assets to AI tools, reducing research time while retaining curatorial judgment over final selections Anthropic Economic IndexAnthropic Economic Index — release_2026_03_24. Opens in new tab..
Proficient
  1. Concept development collaboration — runs structured AI-assisted brainstorming sessions to generate diverse design directions, then critically synthesizes outputs into coherent concepts grounded in layout principles and aesthetic theory Anthropic Economic IndexAnthropic Economic Index — release_2026_03_24. Opens in new tab. Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab..
  2. Client presentation acceleration — leverages AI to produce multiple polished mockup variations in a single workflow session, compressing roughly half the iteration time while preserving authorship of the final direction Anthropic Economic IndexAnthropic Economic Index — release_2026_03_24. Opens in new tab..
  3. Feedback integration pipeline — hands off written client or supervisor feedback to an AI assistant to generate revised layout options, then applies critical judgment to select and refine the most viable solution Anthropic Economic IndexAnthropic Economic Index — release_2026_03_24. Opens in new tab. WEF Skills TaxonomyWEF Skills Taxonomy 2021 — Building a Common Language for Skills at Work. Opens in new tab..
  4. Typographic decision support — uses AI to surface type pairing and size recommendations, then overrides or adopts suggestions based on deep knowledge of hierarchy, readability, and brand voice Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab..
Advanced
  1. Autonomous production delegation — assigns well-specified, low-ambiguity production tasks such as resizing assets for multi-format campaigns to AI agents, auditing outputs for brand and technical accuracy before delivery Anthropic Economic IndexAnthropic Economic Index — release_2026_03_24. Opens in new tab. Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab..
  2. Human-technology workflow design — architects studio-level AI-integrated design pipelines that define which tasks are augmented versus delegated, preserving human authorship for all strategic and aesthetic decisions WEF Skills TaxonomyWEF Skills Taxonomy 2021 — Building a Common Language for Skills at Work. Opens in new tab. Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab..
  3. AI output quality arbitration — establishes evaluation rubrics for assessing AI-generated visuals against aesthetic, accessibility, and client-fit criteria, training junior designers to apply the same standards Anthropic Economic IndexAnthropic Economic Index — release_2026_03_24. Opens in new tab..
  4. Cross-functional AI communication — translates complex visual briefs into precise AI prompts and communicates AI-assisted design rationale to non-designer stakeholders, bridging technical and creative domains WEF Skills TaxonomyWEF Skills Taxonomy 2021 — Building a Common Language for Skills at Work. Opens in new tab..
Evidence pack
AEI usage
Task observations: 28
Augment share: 75.9%
Time saved: 52%
AI autonomy: 0.31
SAFI positioning
Top skill: Active Listening
Score: 42.2 / 100
Quadrant: Q2_ai_augmented
precision: exact
WEF cluster
Human-Technology Interaction
human_technology_interaction
Sources:Anthropic Economic IndexAnthropic Economic Index — release_2026_03_24. Opens in new tab.WEF Skills TaxonomyWEF Skills Taxonomy 2021 — Building a Common Language for Skills at Work. Opens in new tab.Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab.

Pathsmith Durable Skills Framework

Sources:Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Subscriber feature

Ten durable-skill domains mapped to four proficiency/role levels for each occupation. Each statement is aligned to the Pathsmith taxonomy, derived from trusted grounding data and mapped to occupation-specific O*NET tasks and skills.

1Communication11 statements
Emerging
  1. Design brief comprehension — reads and interprets written client briefs to extract core visual communication objectives before beginning layout work Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Concept articulation — describes initial design ideas verbally to supervisors using basic design vocabulary during project kickoff meetings Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Client consultation communication — participates in structured client conferences to clarify layout preferences, brand tone, and deliverable expectations Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Design rationale writing — documents typographic and compositional decisions in written project notes for internal review and approval workflows Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Revision feedback integration — listens actively to stakeholder critique and translates verbal feedback into actionable design adjustments Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Cross-functional presentation — presents concept layouts and sample designs to clients and marketing teams using clear visual and verbal justification of aesthetic choices Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Print specification communication — prepares and communicates digital file specifications, bleed settings, and color profiles to print vendors with precision O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Iterative design dialogue — leads review sessions to surface misalignments between client expectations and delivered layouts, proposing concrete remedies Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Strategic brand communication — translates complex organizational messaging and marketing strategy into cohesive visual language for multi-channel campaigns Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Design system documentation — authors comprehensive style guides and design system documentation that enable cross-team alignment on visual standards Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Mentored communication modeling — coaches junior designers on how to frame design decisions persuasively in client-facing contexts and written briefs Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
2Leadership9 statements
Emerging
  1. Task ownership initiation — takes independent responsibility for completing assigned layout tasks within set deadlines without requiring step-by-step supervision Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Peer contribution — volunteers design input during team brainstorms, offering illustrative material suggestions to support group creative direction Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Project milestone management — coordinates own design deliverables across concurrent client projects, setting personal timelines aligned with production schedules Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Design standard advocacy — raises quality concerns when reviewing final layouts and recommends specific improvements rather than deferring to others Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Creative direction ownership — leads the visual development of a project from concept through final file delivery, making autonomous decisions on layout, type, and imagery Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Cross-disciplinary coordination — directs collaboration between copywriters, marketers, and production staff to ensure design intent is preserved through all production stages Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Studio creative leadership — sets the creative vision and quality benchmarks for a design team, reviewing all outgoing work and establishing aesthetic standards for client accounts Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Junior designer mentorship — guides emerging designers through layout critique sessions, teaching principles of visual hierarchy, grid systems, and client communication Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  3. Design process ownership — initiates and champions new workflows for digital file management and client approval cycles that improve studio-wide efficiency Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
3Metacognition8 statements
Emerging
  1. Skill gap identification — recognizes personal limitations in software proficiency or design principles and seeks targeted tutorials or peer guidance to address them Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Design process reflection — reviews completed layouts to identify what compositional decisions were effective versus ineffective before closing a project Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Learning strategy calibration — selects specific learning resources such as type design courses or grid system tutorials based on identified weaknesses in current project work Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Creative block awareness — identifies when an ideation approach is not generating viable concepts and deliberately shifts strategy, such as switching from digital to hand-sketching Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Workflow self-monitoring — tracks personal production pace against project deadlines and adjusts layer organization and file management habits to maintain output quality Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Aesthetic judgment calibration — evaluates own design choices against client brand guidelines and market context, distinguishing personal preference from strategic effectiveness Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Mastery mapping — constructs a deliberate professional development plan targeting emerging design tools, interaction design principles, or motion graphics to expand service capabilities Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Cognitive process coaching — teaches junior designers to recognize their own reasoning patterns during layout decisions, fostering self-directed critical evaluation of their work Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
4Critical Thinking9 statements
Emerging
  1. Layout analysis — examines existing brand materials to identify inconsistencies in type size, color use, or alignment before beginning a new design assignment Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Requirement prioritization — identifies which client-stated design requirements are non-negotiable constraints versus stylistic preferences during initial brief review Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Visual hierarchy evaluation — analyzes competing design options by assessing how well each guides the viewer's eye toward primary communication objectives Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Vendor specification validation — critically reviews digital file requirements from printers and evaluates whether prepared files meet color mode, resolution, and bleed standards Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Concept feasibility assessment — evaluates proposed design concepts against budget, timeline, production method, and brand constraints before committing to a direction Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Evidence-based design revision — uses client engagement data, A/B test results, or market research to justify layout modifications on iterative campaign deliverables Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Typography decision reasoning — selects typeface pairings and sizes based on readability research, brand tone analysis, and reproduction context rather than aesthetic impulse alone Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Systems-level design critique — evaluates how individual design assets function within a broader visual ecosystem, identifying structural inconsistencies across a full brand identity system Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Strategic problem reframing — challenges client-stated design problems by analyzing underlying communication goals and proposing alternative visual strategies that better serve business objectives Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
5Collaboration9 statements
Emerging
  1. Team brief participation — contributes layout ideas and illustrative material suggestions during group creative briefings, building on others' input constructively Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Feedback receptivity — accepts and incorporates supervisor design feedback without defensiveness, asking clarifying questions to ensure accurate revisions Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Cross-functional file sharing — prepares and shares layered design files with production partners and developers using organized, labeled structures that support handoff Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Marketing team integration — collaborates with copywriters and marketing coordinators to align visual layouts with messaging strategy and campaign timelines Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Client co-creation facilitation — guides clients through collaborative concept development sessions, synthesizing diverse stakeholder input into unified design directions Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Creative conflict navigation — mediates differing aesthetic opinions between team members or departments by grounding decisions in agreed-upon brand standards and project objectives Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  3. Remote team coordination — maintains design collaboration continuity across distributed teams using shared asset libraries, version control, and annotated design files Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Interdisciplinary project leadership — coordinates graphic design contributions across photography, UX, motion, and print disciplines on large-scale brand launch projects Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Collaboration infrastructure building — establishes shared design libraries, naming conventions, and handoff protocols that elevate team-wide collaboration efficiency Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
6Character9 statements
Emerging
  1. Intellectual property respect — applies copyright-compliant image sourcing practices and properly licenses fonts and stock assets in all design deliverables Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Deadline accountability — communicates proactively with supervisors when project constraints threaten timely delivery rather than concealing delays Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Client confidentiality maintenance — treats client brand strategies, unreleased product visuals, and proprietary identity materials with strict professional discretion Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Constructive critique professionalism — delivers design feedback to peers in a manner that is specific, objective, and respectful of creative effort Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Ethical representation standards — ensures that imagery and visual messaging in client work avoids culturally insensitive, discriminatory, or misleading representations Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Transparent revision tracking — maintains clear version histories and change logs that give clients and teams accurate records of design evolution Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  3. Ownership of errors — identifies and corrects file preparation errors proactively before client delivery rather than attributing production issues to external factors Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Studio ethics leadership — establishes and models professional standards for intellectual property, client confidentiality, and inclusive visual representation across a design team Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Pro bono design stewardship — applies the same quality standards and professional accountability to nonprofit or community design projects as to commercial client work Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
7Creativity10 statements
Emerging
  1. Visual concept generation — produces multiple thumbnail sketches and rough layout variations for a single brief before committing to a final design direction Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Style exploration — experiments with different typeface combinations, color palettes, and illustrative styles in early concept phases to expand creative options Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Original image creation — uses computer software to generate custom graphics and illustrations rather than relying exclusively on stock imagery for client deliverables Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Cross-medium inspiration integration — draws creative references from fine art, architecture, and cultural trends to develop visually distinctive layout solutions Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Conceptual logo development — develops company logo concepts that translate abstract brand values into distinctive, scalable visual marks through iterative creative exploration Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Innovative layout problem-solving — invents unconventional compositional approaches when standard grid structures fail to serve a client's communication challenge Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Campaign visual storytelling — constructs cohesive multi-piece visual narratives across print, digital, and social formats using a unified but dynamically adapted creative concept Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Design system innovation — conceives original visual identity systems that establish new aesthetic directions for brands entering competitive or saturated markets Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Creative culture cultivation — introduces structured ideation rituals such as constraints-based design challenges or cross-industry inspiration sessions that elevate a team's creative output Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  3. Emerging medium experimentation — pioneers the application of new tools such as generative design software or augmented reality to expand the visual possibilities offered to clients Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
8Growth Mindset9 statements
Emerging
  1. Software skill development — engages with tutorials and practice exercises to build proficiency in unfamiliar design applications required for new project types Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Critical feedback utilization — treats supervisor and client revision requests as learning opportunities and applies recurring feedback patterns to future design work Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Rejection resilience — responds to rejected concept presentations by analyzing the misalignment between design intent and client expectations and redirecting creative effort constructively Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Deliberate skill stretching — voluntarily takes on design assignments in unfamiliar formats such as environmental graphics or motion to expand professional capabilities Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Industry trend engagement — actively monitors developments in design technology, typography, and visual culture to continuously update personal design language and toolset Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Iterative process embrace — treats each revision cycle on complex client projects as essential refinement rather than failure, maintaining creative momentum through multiple feedback rounds Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Mastery-oriented portfolio development — strategically pursues projects and collaborations that develop specific high-value skills, treating the portfolio as an evolving record of deliberate growth Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Team learning culture modeling — demonstrates growth mindset principles openly by sharing personal learning struggles and breakthroughs with junior designers to normalize continuous development Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  3. Constructive failure analysis — leads post-project retrospectives that extract specific design and process lessons from unsuccessful pitches or client-rejected campaigns Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
9Mindfulness9 statements
Emerging
  1. Attention management — maintains focused concentration during detailed layout work such as aligning grid elements and kerning type, minimizing self-interruption in deep work periods Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Deadline pressure awareness — recognizes the onset of stress during compressed production timelines and applies brief pause strategies before making consequential design decisions Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Client tension regulation — maintains composed, constructive engagement during difficult client revision conversations without allowing frustration to compromise professional communication Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Creative fatigue recognition — identifies signs of diminishing creative output during extended design sessions and strategically steps away to restore perceptual freshness Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Intentional design review — approaches final layout review with deliberate, unhurried visual inspection rather than automatic approval, catching errors in alignment, color, and type before delivery Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Present-moment client engagement — gives undivided attention during client consultation meetings, setting aside other project concerns to accurately capture design requirements Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Emotional neutrality in critique — receives and delivers design critique without allowing ego investment in creative choices to distort judgment or interpersonal dynamics Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Team attention environment design — structures studio workflows and meeting cadences to protect deep creative work time, reducing reactive interruptions that fragment designer focus Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Mindful creative leadership — models deliberate, non-reactive decision-making in high-pressure production environments, anchoring team composure during crisis timelines or difficult client situations Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
10Fortitude10 statements
Emerging
  1. Revision persistence — continues refining layout solutions through multiple client-requested revision rounds without abandoning quality standards or creative commitment Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Ambiguity tolerance — initiates design work under conditions of incomplete client direction, making informed provisional decisions rather than waiting for full specification Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Deadline pressure endurance — sustains design output quality and professional composure during simultaneous multi-project deadline convergences Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Creative rejection recovery — rebuilds momentum and reengages creative problem-solving after a fully developed concept is rejected by a client without internalizing the setback as personal failure Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Sustained campaign execution — maintains creative energy and design consistency across extended multi-month projects involving hundreds of individual assets without allowing fatigue to degrade output Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Difficult client navigation — perseveres through adversarial or chronically indecisive client relationships, continuing to deliver professional-quality work without withdrawing creative effort Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  3. Technical failure recovery — rebuilds and delivers on schedule after significant file corruption, software failure, or hardware loss events that destroy in-progress design work Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Organizational change resilience — maintains studio creative output and team morale during major disruptions such as client account losses, software platform migrations, or leadership transitions Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Courageous design advocacy — defends evidence-based design decisions against client or organizational pressure to compromise work in ways that would undermine its effectiveness Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  3. Long-arc perseverance modeling — demonstrates and teaches sustained commitment to design excellence across careers spanning evolving technologies and market conditions, inspiring resilience in emerging practitioners Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Sources:Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
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Related titles
Graphic Designer · Ad Designer (Advertising Designer) · Ad Layout Worker (Advertising Layout Worker) · Apparel Graphic Designer · Artist · Brand Designer · Catalogue Illustrator · Commercial Artist · Concept Artist · Creative Designer · Design Consultant · Designer
RAPIDS apprenticeships
0247 · Graphic Designer
O*NET skills
Active ListeningSpeakingWritingCritical ThinkingActive LearningComplex Problem SolvingJudgment and Decision MakingTime ManagementSocial PerceptivenessCoordinationReading ComprehensionNegotiationService OrientationPersuasionMonitoring
Knowledge domains
DesignFine ArtsComputers and ElectronicsCommunications and MediaEnglish LanguageSales and MarketingCustomer and Personal ServiceProduction and ProcessingAdministration and Management
Abilities
OriginalityNear VisionFluency of IdeasWritten ComprehensionOral ComprehensionOral ExpressionWritten ExpressionDeductive ReasoningSpeech RecognitionSpeech Clarity
Work styles
InnovationAttention to DetailDependabilityAchievement OrientationAdaptabilityIntellectual Curiosity
Technology
Document management softwareDevelopment environment softwareVideo creation and editing softwareWeb platform development softwareGraphics or photo imaging softwareDesktop publishing softwareWeb page creation and editing softwarePresentation softwareOperating system softwareComputer aided design CAD software
Tasks · seed anchors for statements
  1. Key information into computer equipment to create layouts for client or supervisor.
  2. Review final layouts and suggest improvements, as needed.
  3. Determine size and arrangement of illustrative material and copy, and select style and size of type.
  4. Develop graphics and layouts for product illustrations, company logos, and Web sites.
  5. Create designs, concepts, and sample layouts, based on knowledge of layout principles and esthetic design concepts.
  6. Use computer software to generate new images.
  7. Prepare digital files for printing.
  8. Confer with clients to discuss and determine layout design.
CIP education codes
11.080111.080350.010250.040150.040250.040450.0409

Sources: O*NET v30.2 (CC BY 4.0), SkillsCrosswalk.com, LER.me, Anthropic Economic Index, SAFI (Jadhav & Danve, 2026), WEF Skills Taxonomy 2021, Pathsmith Durable Skills Framework. © 2026 EBSCOed.